Lymphocytopenia

Definition

Lymphocytopenia is a condition marked by an abnormally low level of lymphocytes in the blood. Lymphocytes are a specific type of white blood cell with important functions in the immune system.

Description

Lymphocytes normally account for 15-40% of all white cells in the bloodstream. They help to protect the body from infections caused by viruses or fungi. They also coordinate the activities of other cells in the immune system. In addition, lymphocytes fight cancer and develop into antibody-producing cells that neutralize the effect of foreign substances in the blood.

Lymphocytopenia is the result of abnormalities in the way lymphocytes are produced, make their way through the bloodstream, or are lost or destroyed. These conditions can result from congenital or drug-induced decreases in the body's ability to recognize and attack invaders.

— Maureen Haggerty

(medicine) Reduction of the absolute number of lymphocytes per unit volume of peripheral blood. Also known as lymphopenia.

A decrease in the normal number of lymphocytes in the circulating blood. Various limits are given (for example, a total number less than 600/mm³). It may be associated with agranulocytosis, hyperadrenocorticism, leukemia, advanced Hodgkin’s disease, irradiation, and acute infections with neutrophilia.

See lymphopenia.